Complications

Laparoscopic gastric banding is the safest operation currently available for control of obesity but complications can still occur particularly as patients who require the surgery usually have an increased risk due to co-existing diseases.

Possible general complications include:

Deep vein thrombosis/clots (DVT) causing pulmonary emboli (lungs)
Heart problems
Stroke
Breathing complications
Wound infections
Bleeding/Brusing
Breathing complications
Wound infections
Bleeding/Brusing

Specific Complications of Gastric Banding:

Band Slippage causing obstruction and vomiting
Port problems e.g. rotation, displacement, tubing leaks, infection requiring further treatment.
Erosion of the band into the stomach requiring removal
Injury to bowel, stomach or other intra-abdominal organs requiring further surgery

Side effects:

Vomiting if excess food is eaten.